In the course of my research — the findings from which I will release next month — I have learned a lot about how women are investing their 'wealth'. Some invest time in their children, others spend their energy producing technology and some put their money into providing water testing and more-reliable electrical grids for the Third World. In other words, many are using their resources to literally save the world.

But there are also successful women not afraid to admit they have already done enough "giving back" through various means and are now embracing the "life is short" philosophy when it comes to their resources.

We are constantly deluged with news of high household debt and fiscal cliffs and the like, so, to counter that, I thought it might be fun to share the perspectives of some who are enjoying themselves.

* A university professor in Toronto told me she spends money on the simple things that make her happy; stuff that makes her life better in some way. She has spent a lot of time abroad and appreciates the European approach to enjoying life — taking in opera, art museums, fine wine and spending time with friends.

* A housewife in Zurich, Switzerland, told me of her passion for singing. After years of agonizing, she cashed in her pension and self-financed an album. For her, success isn't defined by record sales or the knowledge that there will be financial security in retirement. Music is the language of the soul and it allows her to express herself. She is now on her third album.

* A branding expert in Paris said that after years of contributing to various causes, she no longer feels a debt to society and she has started entering a phase that feels a bit hedonistic. She is focused on doing more of what she enjoys and allowing herself to have deeper experiences. The challenge, of course, is to keep a balance and continue to earn, to invest and to save for her later years. When she travels on business, she makes a point of adding on an extra few days to explore the location in a fun and stimulating way.

The hedonist approach isn't in the majority and it likely won't pay the bills but, used sparingly, we could all embrace a bit of it to round out the spiritual side of our portfolio.

Are you a hedonist with your money?

In the course of my research — the findings from which I will release next month — I have learned a lot about how women are investing their 'wealth'. Some invest time in their children, others spend their energy producing technology and some put their money into providing water testing and more-reliable electrical grids for the Third World. In other words, many are using their resources to literally save the world.